Location

At the Quantum Logic Spectroscopy Group of the QUEST Institute we are looking for a

scientist (PostDoc)
in the field of optical clocks

to join us as soon as possible. The post is initially limited to 2 years, an extension of the contract up to 6 years is possible. You will be given the opportunity to develop your own research profile and to obtain your habilitation at Leibniz Universität Hannover. The salary will be paid in accordance with remuneration group 13 TVöD Bund. You will be employed at our Braunschweig site.
The research within the Quantum Logic Spectroscopy Group revolves around precision spectroscopy of trapped and laser-cooled atomic and molecular ions. For this purpose, we develop novel technologies for the coherent manipulation of single ions and their spectroscopy.

Area of activity
We develop optical clocks based on singly-charged aluminium and calcium atoms. Through the development of special cooling techniques and by employing correlations between several ions within the scope of SFBs 1227 (DQ-mat) a relative uncertainty of 10-18 and below shall be achieved. These high-precision clocks will be used for tests in fundamental physics, such as a possible variation of fundamental constants, and for relativistic geodesy. The aim is to exploit frequency differences between distant clocks due to relativistic effects for the measurement of height differences. For this purpose, a transportable clock will be developed within the scope of SFBs 1128 (geo-Q).

We are part of an excellent research environment and have access to PTB's unique infrastructure. The group has excellent connections to other groups at a national and international level and is involved in several coordinated research projects.

Tasks:

Set up, evaluation, and operation of two high-accuracy optical ion clocks

Planning and conduction of measurement campaigns

Implementation of concepts for highly stable references based on large ion crystals

Mentoring of a team of several PhD candidates

Participating in the further development of the project objectives and application of third-party funds

Your profile:

You have completed your doctoral degree in physics

You have sound knowledge of atomic physics and experience in the field of quantum optics, laser cooling, laser spectroscopy or related subjects

You are interested in developing and realizing precision experiments

You are highly committed and capable of working autonomously and are eager to broaden your knowledge

You work best in a team and have good communication skills

The physical ability to work in a laboratory and to perform experiments outside the institute is required.